In its simplest form, Media Sales is the selling of space for advertising. Whether it be the sale of classified adverts or the handling of a major agency looking to place advertising worth thousands of pounds across a range of mediums, it is the sales people who make the business profitable, and indeed, who command the big salaries and reap the big rewards in the industry.
What can I expect?
As is the case with all careers, new employees must prove themselves before enjoying the real rewards of their chosen profession. Unlike many other paths however, Media Sales provides for rapid career progression for those who work hard and achieve results.
A job at one of the large publishers will often require new employees ("Sales Executives") to sell classified or small slots of advertising space at the back of the magazine, often over the telephone. Hitting targets and performing well can see an employee move on to face-to-face sales, handling large accounts or trying to bring in new companies to take space in the publication. Remember, it is the sales people who make the publication profitable, and performance is easily measured and well rewarded, both financially and in terms of career progression.
In other, non-publishing media organisations, such as Broadcast or Outdoor Advertising, your first job will be as a "Sales Co-ordinator", responsible for supporting more senior colleagues with pitches and presentations as well as liaising with clients, researching the market; collating data, booking your clients' advertising campaigns and, of course, bringing the money in! Again, the industry is meritocratic and performance will see people well rewarded and professionally recognised.
How much can I earn?
Salaries in Media Sales usually start between £16,000- £18,000 basic, plus monthly or quarterly bonuses which take On Target Earnings to £20,000- £25,000 in your first year. Wherever you start in media sales, whatever company, if you prove yourself and are successful then you can expect a prosperous and attractive long-term career.
If you are still unsure whether media sales is for you, please see our Case Studies page which includes career information and advice written by real media sales professionals!